SIPTU members in the AbbVie pharmaceutical plant in Carrigtwohill, Co Cork, have served notice of industrial action commencing on Monday 19 May in a dispute over pay.
The initial stage of the industrial action will take the form of a work to rule, including an overtime ban, strict adherence to standard operating procedures and requiring the requisite four weeks’ notice before changing shift patterns.
SIPTU said that after meeting with members in early 2025, it wrote to management regarding several matters including pay rates and the lack of a transparent pay structure.
The union claims that its numerous attempts to resolve the issues at the company through negotiations with management have been refused.
“Workers employed by AbbVie Cork have two Labour Court recommendations which advise that the employer recognise SIPTU as the workers chosen union for collective bargaining purposes,” said SIPTU Sector Organiser, Andrea Cleere.
“This should mean that the company engages with SIPTU representatives on any changes to workers’ terms and conditions including those which effect pay,” Ms Cleere said.
AbbVie has been contacted for comment.
